Outdoor Area Rugs
Outdoor Area Rugs
When choosing an area rug to compliment your outdoor living space, some things to consider are: What area will the rug cover? Will it be in an enclosed patio, under a patio cover or out in the open? Will it be under at table or as a runner or doormat? What style and color best fits the area, what type of fiber will last in an outdoor setting and how much do you want to spend?
Fabric
Outdoor area rugs should be made of a durable fiber, fade resistant, mold and mildew resistant and able to stand up to the outdoor elements, children and pets. All weather olafin is a great fiber that resists the elements and bamboo is ecologically sound as well as soil, stain and fade resistant. Synthetic or natural, both fibers are easy to clean and a great choice for an outdoor area rug.
Cost
Cost will depend on the materials used, the care put into the construction and the size. Outdoor area rugs made of synthetic fibers such as olafin or polypropalene are typically less expensive than bamboo or those constructed of natural fibers. Handmade as opposed to machine made will also determine the cost. The larger the size of the rug, the more expensive it will be. Determining your price range before shopping will save time and disappointment.
Color
When choosing a color for an outdoor area rug, darker hues and patterns help create a comfortable feel. They will also show less dirt but will absorb heat. Lighter colors make that area look larger, absorb less heat but will show more soil and have to be cleaned more often.
Size
Size is also important. Choose a rug that is neither too large for the area nor too small. If the rug is going under a table, it should extend out from underneath approximately one foot. A rug for an outdoor room, such as an enclosed patio, should stop with at least a foot of floor space between the rug and the wall. An outdoor area rug that is too large, takes away from the detail and crisp lines or curves the rug should create.
Even in an outdoor setting, area rugs do so much more than just cover the floor. Just like a picture or vase, outdoor area rugs add much needed comfort and style to the area without adding needing to make a big change to the room. The look of the area can be altered with little expense by just rolling up the rug and replacing it with another.